What is Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in your own words?

“HCI is a tool and means to create a transformative, interactive, and all-inclusive experience for the user.”

Human-computer interaction is a field of study focusing on the design of computer technology, with an extra emphasis on the interaction between humans and computers. It requires a deep understanding of how people behave, how they perceive the world, and how they use and interact with technology.

HCI is the study of all user behaviors, including social computing, accessibility for the elderly, and the cognitively and physically impaired to name a few, it caters to the widest possible spectrum of human experiences and activities. I’d also like to add that beauty and aesthetics are surely part of the process but contrary to popular belief aren’t the only thing that you will be studying.

Share your journey and experiences as a student interested in HCI. What sparked your interest in HCI, and how has your journey unfolded so far?

I studied Bachelor of Design (Human Centered Design) at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology. When I joined I was not fully sure of what was to come except the expectation of designing cool apps and websites. Eventually, I realized how HCI is a lot more about research and finding the most intuitive plus easy path to completing a task, whether it’s checking out all items from their cart or learning how to operate a coffee machine.

I realized how important Research is! This process requires you to build a strong case for your design decisions. Without the research, the product you create is biased to your experiences. To gain reliable research insights, you need to collect data from the demographics that will be using that product. For instance, if you are developing an app to remind the elderly to take their medication, you need to speak with them and consider all possible ailments, like poor vision, lack of mobility, and poor grasp on firm objects. It’s all about the user and how it helps them achieve their goals.

I learned about several methodologies, tools, and techniques of conducting research and formulation of products from myriad experiences such as my academics, projects, working in a startup, and then freelancing.

What prompted your decision to pursue your postgraduate studies in the US?

My situation was unusual. My family’s immigration came through and I moved to the US on a green card. I worked here at a startup as a UX designer and then freelanced.  I realized that I wanted to specialize in research and also get the chance to be in a learning environment at a time when AI is becoming so relevant. I wanted to have a chance to discover what I am truly passionate about and equip myself with the skills to contribute to those areas.

How did you adapt to the culture shock and technical challenges while advancing your knowledge in HCI?

The culture shock was definitely a tough part of the journey!

For me, moving without being enrolled in a program felt like I had been dropped into society and asked to survive. Today, it has been almost three years since I came here, and now it has started to feel more like home, to be honest.

The work environment as well was unfamiliar to me but you learn as you go. To expand my professional network, I proactively joined many UX groups such as Research Bookmark Design Buddies, and UX Wizards, leveraging the ADP list for mentorship which provided me with a sense of comfort and camaraderie. I participated in multiple UX community events and continued participating in hackathons. I also worked on enhancing my understanding of front-end development proactively.

It is definitely a struggle in the beginning but I promise it will get better 🙂

What’s next for you? What are your plans for this year?

I have decided to go with the University of Maryland, College Park Campus to pursue my MS HCIM program. I am looking forward to attending an intense two years of learning about creating seamless innovative experiences for users, creating a strong network, and equipping myself with the skills that will secure a successful career for me, here in the US.

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Counselor’s Perspective:

For a counselor and college planner, there’s nothing better than a committed student.

Sohaya’s thorough research, strong ethics, attending numerous college webinars, interactions with university admissions departments, and her genuine interest in showcasing herself effectively over her written and video essays, helped her application stand out.

At University Connection, we are dedicated to making the college planning journey a smooth and enriching experience for each student; we understand that the student is at the center of it all.

Sohaya, thank you for being the best version of yourself through the entire process. We thoroughly enjoyed your portfolio, your renditions, your patience and just watching you succeed. All the best!

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A quick snapshot of the Application process:

Starting with personalized consultation, we craft a list of potential colleges that align with the student’s dreams and goals. Through thoughtful one-on-one sessions, this list is refined into a final selection of dream, reach, and safe schools. The focus then shifts to building a strong resume and portfolio, guiding through test preparations like IELTS, GRE, or GMAT, and creating a timeline to keep the process on track and stress-free. Ensuring the applications reflect student’s true potential is the larger goal, and even as they eagerly await those acceptance letters, we encourage them to focus on their well-being.

Reach out to an Orange Counselor to create a tailored plan for your success!